The blow for the firm comes as Hartlepool Borough Council confirmed it is investigating allegations relating to a safeguarding incident involving “a number of vulnerable adults” at the care home.

A Grant Thornton spokesman said the administration process will not be rushed and the welfare of the residents in Briar Court and the firm’s 19 other facilities in England and Scotland will be the priority.

He said: “The main thing is to ensure minimal distruption for the fragile service users.

“Interest has been shown in the units, but it will be business as usual and a continued drive to ensure that the standards in all of the units are not only maintained but improved.”

Castlebeck, which was formed 25 years ago, provides care home facilities for 214 residents.

Hartlepool Borough Council said it does not have a contract with the firm but say it is required to respond to all safeguarding concerns arising in the town.

The council was unable to confirm the nature of the safeguarding allegations.

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